I cannot say enough good things about this place. Prices and location are good. Now, about the class: Leon is a world-class instructor--patient, knowledgeable, and passionate about pottery. I came in as a complete beginner, and thanks to his expert teaching, I learned to center, throw, trim, glaze, and finish my pieces with confidence and joy. The class environment is incredibly supportive and inspiring. Whether you're a first-timer or looking to refine your skills, you'll feel right at home here. One of the best parts? The pricing is amazing, and it even includes all the glazes--such a great value! The open studio hours are a huge bonus. They gave me the freedom to practice outside of class time and really hone my craft at my own pace. I'm already signed up for more sessions and genuinely look forward to each visit. Hands down one of the best learning experiences I've ever had! read more

Carolina Clay Connection - Trimming my first bowl. - Art Supplies Near Me - Pineville, North Carolina

I first stopped by, looking for a new kiln. I have been back many times & it's always a pleasure. It's usually a day adventure as it's over an hour drive for me. I don't mind. It's worth it. I'm remembered like a friend, treated like family and never once made to feel like I didn't know what I was doing (I really didn't and still probably don't)... instead they help, teach, suggest and guide in the best way possible. Every time feels like a kid in a candy store and I'm always given direction towards whatever flavor I want. They even indulged my desires to make custom glaze and mixed my recipe for me to take home as dry in all the right proportions. Prices are the best I've found anywhere. I quickly found out I was paying 2-3x too much buying on Amazon. No shock there. Love local! If you're looking for the best place for all things pottery in driving distance to south Charlotte, The Clay Connection is it! From the moment you walk in, you're welcomed like family. The service here is beyond exceptional--everyone is knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely passionate about what they do. Their selection is top-notch, whether you're looking for high-quality clay, glazes, tools, or kilns. They take the time to guide you, ensuring you get exactly what you need for your project. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced ceramic artist, their expertise makes all the difference. The personal attention you receive is unmatched. They don't just sell products; they truly care about helping you succeed. Their recommendations have improved my work, and I always leave feeling inspired. If you're into pottery, do yourself a favor and visit The Clay Connection--it's more than a store, it's a community! read more

This is the most amazing clay store for potters. The selection is just amazing! Their prices are very good on clay, but you have to buy at least 500lbs to get a discount. Service is great. Phone service is also excellent. Their website is severely outdated!! read more

Super helpful staff. They got me all set up and lots of explanations for a noob. Prices were reasonable.

I came in to the store at 3:20 when they closed at 3:30. They accommodated me with 175 lbs of clay that I needed and got it all out to my car by 3:30. There selection is second to none. They never disappoint! Thank you, Clay Connection! read more

I have been using Carolina Clay from 2002, when I retired to Montana, relying on their responsiveness and handling the orders, along with the shipping. It was not unusual to order one to two tons of clay at approximately $350 a ton and then paying over $400 a ton in shipping. Moving back to the Charlotte area in 2012 it was a delight to finally see the inside of their shop and to meet the owner and key employees. I finally was able to put a face with the name. Very good folks. They have a pretty extensive stock of tools for working clay, a large inventory of chemicals for making glazes and for putting finishes on pots, many pugged and ready-to-use d-aired clays and they can fill your custom orders. The range of clays is impressive from low fire, porcelain, mid-range firing, high fire and specialty clays, like raku. As to glazes, they carry the full line of Amaco, Spectrum, Coyote, Laguna, Mayco, Opulence and Standard brands, in different sized containers. Also under-glazes, sieves, wax resist and other specialty items, like small sieves for glaze testing, Ohaus scales and weights, hydrometers and different scoops and weighing containers. I like to use some of the Coyote glazes. They stock about a dozen of them and I was told recently that they can order any others that they have AND that buying them at retail avoids having to pay the shipping. Of course, I will need to go uptown to pick my orders up. Throwing classes are regularly scheduled for people who want to learn how to use the potter's wheel. There are eight wheels set up and a number of local potters teach the classes. Also, there are a number of kilns that they use to fire what is produced by the students. Olympic and Skutt kilns are the lines sold, in all varieties of size and accessories. And they sell Shimpo and Brent potter's wheels to boot. Check out their web site www.carolinaclay.com Really nice people who will work with you. Prices are comparable with other clay suppliers. read more

Carolina Clay Connection is like FAO Schwartz for pottery makers and clay workers... Excellent selection of tools, slip, glazes etc. Best of all is MIKE, who spent time with me, made suggestions without any hard sell, and he understood my level of learning and skill .... Great Place Thank you Mike !!! read more